Lee Roy Braun, 83, passed away on May 18, 2021 at the Fort Meade VA Hospital after a short illness.

Lee was born on September 18, 1937 to Raphael and Anna (Mischel) Braun. He was the 4 ^th of 6 children. He grew up and attended schools in Haynes, ND. After graduation, Lee joined the U.S. Air Force. While stationed in California, he met Sharon Poppleton and to this union his son, Edward, was born.

Lee and Edward eventually returned to North Dakota, where Lee worked in road construction. This is when he met and married Margaret Fjeldahl. Two children, Roberta and Martin, were added to the family.

Lee spent many years working in the Hettinger and Haynes areas, ranching and farming, and working various other jobs. He began working in the oil fields during this time, and it was then that he met Dorothy Heil, the love of his life. They married on October 28, 1983. In 1986, they moved to Newell, SD, where Lee began work for the State Highway Department, and later the City of Newell. This is where Lee and Dorothy retired and made their forever home.

Lee was known around town for his gardening, winemaking, killing dandelions, his beautiful yard, bluntness, sly smile, work ethic, and his Catholic faith. He had lost most of his eyesight several years ago from his medical conditions, but he continued onward with his gardening and winemaking despite this setback. We are so grateful that Lee can now see again.

He is survived by his wife, Dorothy; sons, Edward "Thumper" (Barb) Braun of Belfield, ND, and Martin (Sharon) Braun of Belfield, ND; daughter, Roberta Braun of Grand Junction, CO; grandson, Stephan Lugo of Grand Junction, CO; stepchildren, Dee Dee, Desi, Dave, and Dana; sister-in-law, Mary Braun of Lead, SD; brother, Tom (Irene) Braun of Box Elder, SD; and numerous step-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Lee is preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Anna Faye, Mary Ann, and Beatrice; brother, Edward "Bud"; nephews, John and David; and niece, Doris.

A Rosary will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 20, 2021 at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Newell.

Mass of Christian of Burial will be 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 21, 2021, also at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church with Father Timothy Castor officiating. Burial with military honors will be held at Black Hills National Cemetery.

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